Community partnerships for agro-energy
Energy derived from agricultural and farming practices is termed agro-energy. It could contribute to the EU's envisioned energy mix in which renewable energy sources help to alleviate global climate change. The EU-funded STAR-AGROENERGY (Scientific & technological advancement in research on agro-energy: An integrated approach to renewable energy generation according to sustainability criteria) project established the University of Foggia (UFG), Italy, as a regional hub for promoting agro-energy research. This was achieved by boosting the institute's research capacity and improving links with communities and researchers. More specifically, a strong interdisciplinary research team has been created, collaborations have been set up and equipment has been upgraded. This has led to a facility focused on bioenergy and bio-based materials, biomass characterisation, energy conversion (anaerobic digestion and pyro-gasification) and microalgae production. The project established an Agro-Energy Forum that brings together researchers and members of the private and public sectors. By bringing together the research community, industrial managers, government representatives and local entrepreneurs, the project has already boosted local and regional value chains. It is likely that the technological expertise gained through the project has increased the chances of investment by local entrepreneurs. In addition, researchers are planning a spin-off company within the bioenergy sector as a result of the project. STAR-AGROENERGY serves as a model project for sustainable regional development by bringing all actors on board in a collaborative effort. From research evaluations to technology transfer and start-up companies, the project has provided the two-way tools to build partnerships that benefit local communities.
Keywords
Agro-energy, bioenergy, renewable energy, STAR-AGROENERGY, sustainability
